Daniel D. Davies, native of Wales and member of the Noble Nine, Western Carolina University’s first Board of Trustees.

Face jugs, a form of folk art, are so-called because human faces are shaped on them. Because the faces usually have exaggerated humorous or monstrous expressions, they are sometimes called “ugly jugs” or “devil jugs.” While it is unclear whether their origin derives from European or African traditions, Appalachian potters of both races were making them in quantity by the late 19th century. Early notable face jug makers included Charles Decker in East Tennessee, John Dollings in southeastern Ohio, and Cheever and Lanier Meaders in North Georgia. Face jugs may have been made to ward off evil spirits, or to scare children away from jugs containing moonshine. Often referred to as primitive art, they have become popular collectors’ items and are found in many museums.

Hamilton Brown, Cullowhee farmer and member of the Noble Nine, Western Carolina University’s first Board of Trustees.

Lewis J. Smith, Farmer, North Carolina state senator, and member of the Noble Nine, Western Carolina University’s first Board of Trustees.

William A. Henson, Jackson County Sheriff and member of the Noble Nine, Western Carolina University’s first Board of Trustees.

Although horses and mules have been replaced by tractors on most American farms, some farmers in Appalachia still use them, and many more remember having [...]

About The Digital Heritage Project

DigitalHeritage.org includes essays, video interviews, and other materials created by the students of Western Carolina University. It also includes regional lesson plans created by teachers participating in the Adventure of the American Mind project sponsored by the Library of Congress. Radio spots created by WCU faculty and students may be heard on stations WKSF-FM, WMXF-AM, WPEK-AM, WWCU-FM, and WWNC-AM. A print version is available each month in the Laurel of Asheville.